Introduction

This Role Model Campaign seeks to encourage all people – including youth and elders – to share and learn more about what healthy relationships look like in the home, in the community, and in relationships with a boyfriend, girlfriend or spouse. To nominate a role model is to recommend someone who makes you feel safe, who teaches through their actions how to act and be peaceful and shows what it means to live a life free from violence. Those nominated must be 18 years of age or older and can have any gender identity.

The campaign is a way for community members across Inuit Nunangat to acknowledge someone in their daily life who demonstrates characteristics of Inuit societal values that foster healthy relationships, gender equality and a way of living free from violence.

Characteristics of a role model

Respectful

Respectful of all people and the land, makes others feel safe, is trustworthy and treats everyone fairlyWhen experiencing conflict and you need support, they are trusted Example: “I could tell them anything. I feel safe and I know they won’t gossip.”

When in a relationship, provides care and respect for their partner Example: “No matter how they are feeling, they don’t judge, and they take the time to listen and support their partner. They live and share a life free of violence and harm.”

Ready to help

Always ready to help friends, family and the communityOffers to help someone who is experiencing violence at home Example: “My neighbours noticed that I was facing challenges at home and came to ask me what she could do to help.”

Offers to help someone who is grieving Example: “My friend noticed that I was going through a tough time and took the time to offer to go out for a long walk together.”

Ready and willing to share

Uses skills and knowledge to help those around themA community member who is skilled at helping people resolve issues Example: “My sister-in-law helped my brother and I to find positive solutions.”

A youth at school is attentive to others in the school yard Example: “When kids start a fight my friend stops them, doesn’t take sides and helps those involved talk it out calmly.”

Welcoming and inclusive

Being welcoming, open and inclusiveA community member whose home offers a safe and welcoming environmentExample: “In their home I feel safe. They never shout. They work to find solutions.”

A community member who always ensures everyone’s participation in all activities, regardless of gender or age Example: “Our shop teacher invites all students to work together. Girls and boys feel equally welcome and supported.”

Ready and willing to teach and learn

Learns and teaches by doingAn elder takes time to share lessons on how to keep harmonyExample: “After school, my grandmother shares stories to help me learn how to be responsible for my own actions.”

Girls and boys enjoy equal opportunities to feel safe Example: “Our community hockey coach is honest and respectful and expects us to behave the same way on and off the ice.”